Master of Science in Civil Engineering: Construction Engineering

2 Years On Campus Masters Program

University of Washington

Program Overview

The Master of Science in Civil Engineering (Construction Engineering) at the University of Washington is a specialized graduate program designed for engineering professionals seeking advanced knowledge in construction planning, engineering, and project delivery. Offered through the Department of Civil and Environmental Engineering, the program focuses on developing technical and managerial expertise to manage complex construction projects, improve project performance, and support large-scale infrastructure development.

Curriculum Structure

Year 1: Students develop advanced knowledge in construction engineering through specialized graduate coursework. Key learning areas include construction planning, project scheduling, cost estimation, construction methods, engineering management, contract administration, and construction technology.

Year 2: Students deepen their expertise through advanced construction engineering subjects and practical applications. They focus on project execution, construction operations, resource management, infrastructure development, and professional problem-solving.

Focus Areas

Construction Engineering, Construction Planning, Project Scheduling, Cost Estimation, Construction Methods, Contract Administration, Construction Technology, Infrastructure Development, Construction Operations, Engineering Management.

Learning Outcomes

Construction project planning, engineering coordination, cost and schedule control, construction operations management, resource allocation, contract administration, construction technology application, infrastructure project execution, technical problem-solving, professional decision-making.

Professional Alignment (Accreditation)

The program awards a Master of Science in Civil Engineering through the Department of Civil and Environmental Engineering. It is intended for applicants with a civil engineering or related engineering background. Separate program-specific ABET accreditation is not stated.

Reputation & Employability

Academic environment: Offered by the University of Washington's College of Engineering in Seattle.
Industry relevance: The specialization supports professional development in construction engineering and large-scale infrastructure projects.
Professional opportunities: Graduates can pursue roles in construction companies, engineering consultancies, infrastructure organizations, and project management firms.

Experiential Learning (Research, Projects, Internships etc.)

At the University of Washington, the Master of Science in Civil Engineering: Construction Engineering program is designed to provide students with hands-on, practical skills that are essential for success in the field. The program emphasizes experiential learning through a variety of opportunities that allow students to apply theoretical knowledge in real-world settings. With access to state-of-the-art facilities and cutting-edge tools, students are well-equipped to tackle the challenges of modern construction engineering.

Here are some key aspects of the experiential learning opportunities available in this program:

- Laboratories and Research Facilities: Students have access to specialized labs, including the Structural Engineering Laboratory and the Geotechnical Engineering Laboratory, where they can conduct experiments and research on materials and structures.

- Software Proficiency: The program incorporates training in industry-standard software such as AutoCAD, Revit, and SAP2000, ensuring that students are proficient in the tools used by professionals in the field.

- Group Projects: Collaborative projects are a core component of the curriculum, allowing students to work in teams to solve complex engineering problems, simulating real-world project environments.

- Internship Opportunities: The program encourages students to engage in internships with leading construction firms, providing invaluable experience and networking opportunities within the industry.

- Field Trips: Students participate in field trips to construction sites and engineering firms, offering firsthand insights into the construction process and project management.

- Access to Libraries and Resources: The University of Washington boasts extensive library resources, including the Engineering Library, which provides access to a wealth of research materials and databases relevant to civil engineering.

- Collaboration with Institutes: Students can collaborate with various research institutes, such as the Pacific Northwest Transportation Consortium, enhancing their learning through interdisciplinary projects.

Progression & Future Opportunities

The Master of Science in Civil Engineering: Construction Engineering at the University of Washington equips graduates with the skills and knowledge to excel in a dynamic and growing field. With a strong emphasis on practical experience and innovative problem-solving, graduates often find themselves in high-demand roles such as Construction Manager, Project Engineer, and Structural Engineer. The program not only prepares you for immediate employment but also sets the stage for a successful career trajectory in civil engineering.

Here’s what you can expect in terms of progression and future opportunities:

- University Services: The Career Center offers personalized career counseling, resume workshops, and networking events specifically tailored for engineering students. Additionally, the Engineering Advising and Career Services provide resources to connect students with industry professionals.

- Employment Stats and Salary Figures: According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics, civil engineers earn a median annual salary of around $88,570, with many graduates from the University of Washington reporting starting salaries above this average. The employment rate for graduates in engineering fields is consistently high, often exceeding 90%.

- University–Industry Partnerships: The University of Washington has established strong partnerships with leading companies in the construction and engineering sectors, such as Turner Construction and Skanska. These collaborations often lead to internship opportunities and real-world project involvement.

- Long-term Accreditation Value: The program is accredited by the Accreditation Board for Engineering and Technology (ABET), ensuring that your degree meets the highest standards of quality and is recognized globally.

- Graduation Outcomes: Graduates of the program have gone on to work for top firms and government agencies, contributing to significant infrastructure projects and advancements in sustainable construction practices.

Further Academic Progression: After completing your Master’s degree, you may choose to pursue a Ph.D. in Civil Engineering or a related field, which can open doors to advanced research opportunities, teaching positions at universities, or high-level consulting roles. Additionally, you could consider obtaining professional licensure as a Professional Engineer (PE), which can further enhance your career prospects and credibility in the industry.